Nike Mercurial Vapor IX “Fast Forward ’02” Edition

As part of their build up to this summer’s World Cup in Brazil, Nike has released the first of several incredible remake models in the popular Mercurial Vapor IX series.

In 2002, Brasil forward Ronaldo returned to center stage debuting groundbreaking boot technology. With a new, sleeker silhouette that looked more track spike than football shoe, the ‘02 Mercurial Vapor was Nike’s first sub-200 gram boot. It also featured the company’s first stitch-less upper and was designed using Nike’s first anatomical last.

Wearing the boot, Ronaldo scored eight times in Japan and Korea and confirmed his status as the world’s best striker. Ronaldo’s bold chrome colorway stood out as a new icon of football footwear — just as his 1998 boots had done.

To celebrate the heritage of the ‘02 classic, the 2014 Mercurial Vapor IX Fast Forward ’02 Edition provides today’s players with modern boot technology inspired by the ’02 model. Subtle graphic references, colors and prints combine with modern materials and innovation to celebrate the boot’s legacy of speed while commemorating a magical summer tournament for Ronaldo and the Mercurial.

A small heel logo mark identifies the original year of inspiration, and the sockliner tells the story of key moments in the Mercurial’s history.

This is one of the more iconic looks we have seen to date in the Mercurial Vapor IX series, and it goes without saying that they are probably going to sell pretty well (and pretty quick!) What is your opinion of the updated look?

You can find the Vapor IX WC02 Edition at WeGotSoccer and Soccer.com.